Computed Tomography

Small and Concealed,

but not Invisible –
Microfocus Computed Tomography
from Viscom

Complete volume As demands for quality and safety verification rise, the significance of
reconstruction non-destructive inspection processes such as microfocus computed
tomography (µCT) also increases. This is a combination of CT and a
Non-destructive slices microfocus X-ray tube, which provides resolutions in the micrometer
range. In many industrial sectors, this trend-setting, three dimensional
Application area: inspection technique opens completely novel glimpses into the inner
Prototype qualification, structure of an object that until now were not possible without destroy-
reverse engineering, ing it. It can be applied to, for example, prototype qualification, reverse
inspection alongside engineering, or inspection alongside serial production. Material defects
serial production are imaged and characterized according to their type, geometry, and
position within the inspection sample. In this way, cast pieces, electronic
Combination of CT and components, ceramic parts etc. can be inspected for freedom from de-
microfocus X-ray tube fects and dimensional accuracy, quickly and with certainty.

The inspection of a PLCC displays the sharp resolution which can be

realized with µCT (upper right). The 25 µm thick bond wires are just
as recognizable as the surrounding die-attach adhesive along the
edge of the chip. In this image, two iso-gray value surfaces were ex-
tracted from the volumetric data and separated from each other by

µCT
color. A µCT investigation, then, always makes sense when it delivers
information that is not available in a 2-D image (top left).
 A very convincing example in favor of µCT is that of a 4 mm thick rod
from plaster foam. In a reconstructed section image (top right), the
pores are visible in brilliant clarity, while in a 2-D image (top left), nothing
regarding the pores or their position can be determined.

Resolution in A further example is the examination of a crimp connection. In a 2-D

micrometer range microfocus X-ray image (middle left), the wires are very sharply displayed,
but it cannot be recognized if the cold welding with the surrounding
Image recording and metal sheath at the four contact points is adequate. For the human eye,
evaluation in shorter sufficient depth information perpendicular to the image is lacking. It is,
time possible however, definitely present, lying concealed in the slightly varying gray
values of the image. The µCT reveals this concealed information and
Inspection of accuracy makes possible perpendicular slices, as shown in the 3-D visualization
(middle right). In both of the right slices, the cold welds are well-im-
Direct structure pressed. Only with the help of these views can it be appraised, whether
measurement in the bonding quality between the wires and the sheathing of the crimp
real units connector is sufficient to guarantee a reliable electric contact, even under
tensile load conditions.

Due to the rapid advancement of computer performance, µCT has already

distinguished itself as tested and proven in many places in industry.
Image recording and evaluation in shorter times are possible.
Results are already available in a few minutes – depending on the qual-
ity requirements. Thus, µCT can deliver many users information in a
very short time, that previously could often be obtained only after
# Viscom_SYS_CT_EN12030006. March 2012

tedious and destructive measures.

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